Pacific Northwest

December, 2000
Regional Report

Books

The Hosta HandbookThe Hosta Handbook, by Mark R. Zilis (A & Z Nursery, 2000; $35), reviews in detail 278 commonly grown hostas and briefly mentions 1,300 more. Introductory chapters describe the history of hostas, how to grow hostas, what to plant with hostas, and how to propagate, hybridize, and select mutants. Then the author examines each hosta in great detail, describing leaf size, color, shape, texture, substance, and vein pairs, as well as flowering habits, bloom time, flower color and size, scape height, and pod formation. With over 300 color photos, this book is a handy field guide. I simply carry it into the garden, and I'm able to identify my own plants with ease.

Favorite or New Plant

Winter Camellia
There's really no contest - my favorite landscape plant this time of year is definitely the Camellia sasanqua. Blooms of deep to bright pink against dark, glossy green foliage from mid-December through February makes this a standout in my garden.

Camellias originate from subtropical regions in China and Japan and are easily cultivated in open ground or in pots. They love warm, wet summers and moderately cold, dry winters. Cultural requirements for camellias are similar to those for rhododendron, azalea, and holly. They like acidic, well-draining soil, some afternoon sunshine, and a light application of fertilizer in early spring. Occasional pruning will keep the shrubs in shape. Camellia cultivars usually set 5 to 7 flower buds on each terminal shoot. Disbudding (removing all except one or two buds) will help the remaining buds develop into larger, longer-lasting flowers.